If you ever spot the sputnik-shaped kohlrabi, don’t flee the scene. The kohlrabi is a prime example of why you should inspect your produce section with brave and curious eyes.
The thick-skinned winter vegetable looks puzzling but inside is a crisp, juicy vegetable that is incredibly versatile and delicious. The crunchy alien veg is a member of the brassica family (think cabbage, kale and Brussels sprouts) so you can expect flavors you know even if they are in the shape of a space ship.
The kohlrabi is low in calories and contains no fat or cholesterol. It a great addition to your diet because it is an instant immune system boost. It is high in high in vitamin C and B, a powerhouse of minerals and known for being a great source of protein making it both nutritious and filling. All in all, the home cook should get familiar with kohlrabi.
You can treat both green and purple kohlrabi the same way you would a radish…that is overgrown. Purple kohlrabi is a bit spicier than the white counterpart that is a bit sweeter so you can plan your dish according to the flavors you desire. One of the great pluses of root veggies like kohlrabi is that they keep for a couple of weeks so when your greens have wilted, you can go kohlrabi crazy. This is a vegetable that will instantly get you out of the winter produce rut.
Kohlrabi is pleasing to the palate and pairs well with many different ingredients. Here are a few of our favorite kohlrabi recipes to put on the keeper list:
- Make these 3-ingrediant kohlrabi chips for your next football-focused gathering.
- You can make a hearty dish with the globe-shaped stem and the greens in this kohlrabi risotto.
- Grate, grate and grate some more so you can enjoy these herbed kohlrabi fritters.
- If you are longing for a patio meal this corn and kohlrabi salad will transport you to your al fresco dining happy place.
- Simple is always best. Lightly season and roast your kohlrabi for a heavenly side dish.
Your turn! Have you ever tried the kohlrabi? What are your favorite ways to prepare it?
Feature photo via
Whoa, I’d never, to my knowledge, seen a kohlrabi-they really are alien-like!